Clay Slab Tile Art

Supplies Needed

• Air-dry clay (or salt dough if preferred)

• Rolling pins (or bottles as substitutes)

• Baking paper or mats to roll on

• Plastic knives, cookie cutters, or rulers for cutting shapes

• Toothpicks or clay tools for carving designs

• Small bowls of water for smoothing

• Natural materials (leaves, shells, lace, sticks) for texture pressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Clay

1. Give each child a fist-sized ball of clay.

2. Place it on baking paper or a mat to keep the work surface clean.

Step 2 – Roll Out the Slab

1. Use a rolling pin to flatten the clay into a slab about 0.5–1cm thick.

2. Make sure the slab is even so it dries properly.

Step 3 – Cut Tile Shapes

1. Use a plastic knife, cookie cutters, or a ruler to cut out tile shapes.

   • Squares and rectangles work best, but kids can also make hearts, circles, or free-form shapes.

2. Smooth edges with damp fingers.

Step 4 – Add Texture & Decoration

1. Press natural items (leaves, shells, lace, sticks) into the clay to leave imprints.

2. Carve patterns, initials, or drawings into the slab with toothpicks.

3. Optional: poke a hole at the top to turn it into a hanging decoration later.

Step 5 – Drying

1. Leave tiles on a flat surface to dry (24–48 hours, depending on thickness).

2. Once dry, they can be painted with acrylics or sealed with PVA for shine.

Safety / Other Notes

• Ensure slabs aren’t too thick or they may crack while drying.

• Don’t move them too early; wait until they’re firm before handling.

• Encourage creativity—every tile can be unique!